2Hr Aquarist APT 3 – All-in-One Complete Fertilizer for Planted Aquariums

What Is 2Hr Aquarist APT 3?

2Hr Aquarist APT 3 (also known as APT Complete) is an all-in-one liquid fertilizer for planted aquariums, developed by aquascaper Dennis Wong's Singapore-based brand The 2Hr Aquarist. It combines nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium (NPK), magnesium, and a full spectrum of trace elements — including boron, copper, manganese, molybdenum, and zinc — in a single dose. It is the go-to macro and micro fertilizer for hobbyists who want vibrant plant color and low algae without juggling multiple bottles.

Why Aquascapers Choose APT 3

• Richer plant color: A calibrated, slightly nitrate-limiting ratio pushes red and colorful plant species into deeper, more vivid tones.
• Fewer algae problems: Balanced nutrient delivery removes the swings that typically trigger algae outbreaks.
• Higher potency: Roughly 3x more concentrated than conventional fertilizers designed decades ago for simpler, hardier plants.
• One-bottle simplicity: No need to dose separate macro and micro fertilizers — APT 3 covers both.
• Trusted by competitive aquascapers: Used by award-winning aquascapers across 20+ countries.

Dosage & Usage

Dose 3ml per 100L of aquarium water daily, or alternatively 5ml per 100L four times a week. Always dose after a water change or top-off, and turn on your filter/circulation to distribute nutrients evenly.

Available Sizes

• 100ml Starter Pack (with calibrated dropper) — lasts ~3 months for an 8 gal / 30L tank
• 200ml — lasts ~3 months for an 18 gal / 70L tank
• 300ml Standard Pack (with calibrated pump, 1ml per press) — lasts ~3 months for a 30 gal / 115L tank
• 500ml — lasts ~3 months for a 50 gal / 190L tank
• 1000ml — lasts ~3 months for a 100 gal / 380L tank

What's Inside

APT 3 is a liquid inorganic macronutrient fertilizer containing NPK and magnesium, plus micronutrients and trace amounts of boron (B), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), molybdenum (Mo), and zinc (Zn).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is APT 3 suitable for tanks with fish?

Yes. APT 3 is formulated for planted aquascapes that also house a small to moderate number of fish. For tanks with heavier fish loads and fewer plants, 2Hr Aquarist recommends APT 1 instead.

Can I use APT 3 with CO2 or without CO2?

APT 3 works in both CO2-injected and low-tech (non-CO2) planted tanks, though nutrient uptake and results are typically faster with CO2 supplementation.

How is APT 3 different from APT 1?

APT 3 is designed for tanks with more plants and fewer fish, focused on maximizing plant color and growth. APT 1 is designed for tanks with more fish and fewer plants, including new tanks under 3 months old running aquasoil.

Does APT 3 come with a dosing pump?

The 300ml Standard Pack includes a calibrated pump (1ml per press) and the 100ml Starter Pack includes a calibrated dropper. The 200ml, 500ml, and 1000ml sizes do not include a pump.